Skyline Rotorua boasts quite a name throughout New Zealand, and it’s easy to see why.
You're greeted by friendly and enthusiastic staff and presented with fun, adrenaline-pumping rides, plenty of amazing food choices and lots of crazy flavoured jelly beans! What’s not to love?!
It’s based on one of the main roads in Rotorua, just a short time away from the centre, and is unmissable as you pass it. The Gondola passes up the mountain side and looks very impressive to the eye both as you look at it from the ground, and from the view inside one of the cabins. You are treated to unbeatable views of Rotorua as you move up towards the other attractions and facilities offered at this special location.
You’re really spoilt for choice as you leave your Gondola cabin and are free to explore the offerings available to all visitors.
The Luge was unlike anything I had ever tried before and proved to be so much fun, and I can really see why it is emphasised as being for all ages. You board a small Luge cart and can make the most of three exhilarating tracks, through the wonderful greenery of the Redwood Forest. I was treated to beautiful autumnal views and sped through colours of orange, red and brown as the trees boast such beautiful colours at this time of year.
The beauty of the Luge is that you are in full control of the speed, and can cruise down each track at your own pace. You can race against your mates or take a slower pace and enjoy the tranquil scenery which surrounds you.
The Luge carts can pick up quite a pace indeed! It is a great thrill and as Skyline themselves emphasise: ‘Once is never enough’, which I would certainly agree with. I really couldn’t wait to board the ski-style lift, get back to the top and experience another ride. There are plenty of package options for visitors to choose from, many of which include multiple rides on the Luge.
Each track has a differing ability level, so you are free to dare yourself to a more thrilling adventure if you’re feeling confident!
After magical experiences on the Gondola and Luge there’s plenty more to fill a whole day of fun for all ages.
I, personally, absolutely loved the SkySwing. What a buzz! After participating in the Ledge Swing in Queenstown, which swings you at a rapid speed over Bob’s Peak in the town on the south island, I didn’t quite know what to expect. However, the SkySwing certainly didn’t disappoint and I can safely say it look my breath away! We were strapped into a round pod, and elevated high above the Skyline premises, as high as 50 metres. Before we knew it, we were swinging at a spine-tingling 120kph through the air. This is such an adrenaline rush, and another great way to get fantastic views of Rotorua! What’s more, three people can share the experience together and watch all the footage again at the end!
The Zoom Ziplines are another great option for those seeking a bit of an adrenaline buzz. It is quite a new attraction at Skyline and has certainly made a name for itself amongst locals and visitors. The name gives it away - you zoom through the sky attached to a zipline! You can even reach speeds of up to 80kph as you literally fly through the trees and greenery of Mount Ngongotaha, and you can experience a flying sensation, if you’re brave enough to position yourself in a flying pose! You can also place your arms and legs narrowly to ensure you hit the highest speed possible.
And as if that wasn’t enough of a thrill - at the end of the zipline, you get the opportunity to ‘take a leap of faith’ on the Quickjump, which sees you jump backwards and experience a true freefalling sensation before being lowered back to the ground. The thrills just don’t stop!
For more excitement, you can visit the 4D motion theatre for surreal experiences for many ages.
After so much fun, visitors are bound to work up quite an appetite, and the plethora of food options is quite hard to believe!
The restaurant, Stratosphere Rotorua, is a beautiful location in the heart of Skyline, with a mouth-watering selection of buffet food including fresh meat and produce, all locally source. Maybe your palate prefers seafood? Then you’ll love the delicious fresh mussels! There really is something for everyone, and much of the food can be cooked to order upon request, too.
For those who are seeking a quicker bite to eat, the Food Market Kitchen is the perfect place. If you fancy it, chances are it’ll be on offer! Choose from beverages such as teas, coffee, soft drinks and more, amongst meals and snacks like pastries, pizzas, pies, curries, crepes and cakes! You can relax in the pleasant atmosphere and recharge ready for more fun on the various attractions.
For the ones who like a little wine every now and then, there is even a winery based on the premises. The winemakers of Volcanic Hills Wine Tasting Room take pride in allowing visitors to sample their exquisite creations. Which will you choose as your favourite? You’ll enjoy wines from New Zealand’s wineries that have gained fame worldwide. What’s more, if you want to enjoy a meal with Skyline, you can have your meal matched with the most complimentary of wines from the tasting room.
For the younger, and of course, the older generations, there is the amazing Jelly Belly Store. You won’t believe your eyes as you walk through the doors to many jelly bean flavours - traditional ones amongst brand new and extremely unique flavours to excite (or even disgust…) the taste buds. Wonder around the store in awe as you discover new taste sensations. I really couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw Cafe Latte and Draft Beer flavours - and they really did taste like it, too!
You’re free to immerse yourself in everything Jelly Belly, including a game of luck in ‘Bean Boozled’. Spin the wheel to decide your fate - which nasty and nice flavours will you be tasting? Lime and Lawn Clippings, or Chocolate Pudding and Dog Food? Your fate is with the wheel! There are even sculptures and portraits made purely out of jelly beans. It really is jelly bean heaven! This store was the first of its kind in New Zealand.
Skyline Rotorua really has something for everyone and promises a fun-filled and memorable day out, providing thrilling activities, stunning views and wonderful food. If you're in Rotorua, this is definitely one to add to the list of must-do’s!
